Stars step up for Nashville

After flooding caused over $1.5 billion in damages--not including the priceless wreckage of historical memorabilia and locations (like the Grand Ole Opry)--the stars who call the Music City home are ready to help.

“The damage that we’ve seen to people’s homes and the effect that the flooding has had on their lives is unimaginable. But we’ve seen the spirit of our community first hand, as volunteers, church groups and our local business leaders rally to help,” the duo said in a press release. “We all need to continue to support those in need in anyway that we can, and for that reason we could not be more appreciative to all of the artists, the companies and the people behind the scenes, who collectively, will make June 22nd a truly special night.”

Taylor Swift–a Pennsylvania native who moved to Nashville at 14–recently donated $500,000 to help flood victims. She told the Associated Press, “Being at home during the storm, I honestly could not believe what was happening to the city and the people I love so dearly, Nashville is my home, and the reason why I get to do what I love. I have always been proud to be a Nashvillian, but especially now, seeing the love that runs through this city when there are people in crisis.”

Even Ke$ha, who has come under fire for hard-partying, alcohol-fueled lyrics, is showing a softer side in the wake up the damage to the Music City: she’ll be performing at a benefit concert on June 16. “I’m thrilled to announce that I will be playing a show to help benefit Nashville, my hometown,” she said in a statement. “100% of the profits from ticket sales will go to help the victims of these devastating floods. Nashville helped shape me as an artist and as a person, and my love for this city is beyond words. I will continue to do anything I can to help rebuild this city and support the families and animals who have been affected by this tragedy.” The animal-lover also donated 1,000 pounds of pet food to a local shelter.